Natural Disaster Risk in Madison

Natural Hazard Profile: Madison, North Carolina

Madison, in Rockingham County, is a city of approximately 12,537 residents situated along the mid-Atlantic coast. Its humid subtropical climate brings hot, humid summers and four distinct seasons, and in particular a hurricane and tropical storm season affecting the coast. These conditions collectively define the natural hazard environment that Madison residents and property owners must navigate.

Madison's overall natural disaster risk is rated 6.4/10 (High) by FEMA's National Risk Index. Tropical cyclones are the dominant hazard, with the area facing threats from both direct landfalling hurricanes and the outer rain bands and storm surge of systems making landfall nearby. Secondary hazards include ice storm and lightning.

Within North Carolina, Madison's risk is, near the 6.2/10 state average. Nationally, it ranks above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. FEMA's analysis of Rockingham County identifies hurricane as the foremost hazard, followed by ice storm and lightning. These rankings reflect the relative frequency and severity of each hazard type in the local environment.

Madison's high risk designation reflects meaningful exposure to natural hazards. Residents should verify that their insurance covers the area's primary risks, prepare a family emergency plan, and stay informed about seasonal hazard peaks through local weather and emergency management services.